How Stress Impairs Emotional Regulation in Individuals with Mental Health Conditions

Recent research from Edith Cowan University (ECU) highlights the impact of acute stress on brain functions responsible for managing emotions—especially in individuals living with distress disorders like depression, anxiety, and borderline personality disorder. The study conducted by ECU Masters student Tee-Jay Scott and Professor Joanne Dickson reveals that stress does not enhance mental focus as often presumed. Instead, it can temporarily hinder executive functions, which are crucial for problem-solving, planning, and regulating emotions.

Executive functions are high-level brain processes that enable individuals to control emotional responses effectively during challenging situations. The research indicates that in stressful moments, these functions may be disrupted, making it harder for affected individuals to maintain emotional stability. This vulnerability is more pronounced in people with depression, anxiety, or borderline personality disorder, even when symptoms are not severe enough to warrant a formal diagnosis.

The study examined 17 international investigations focused on how acute stress impacts mental skills like working memory, response inhibition, and cognitive flexibility in these populations. Findings suggest that stress significantly impairs working memory in depressed individuals and diminishes response inhibition—an essential component of self-control—in those with borderline personality disorder.

These impairments have important implications for psychological therapy. Many treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), depend heavily on robust executive functions. When these are compromised during stress, the effectiveness of such interventions may be reduced, especially during periods of heightened emotional distress.

To address this, researchers advocate for developing tailored therapeutic strategies that consider stress-related cognitive disruptions. Enhancing executive function capacity before engaging in emotionally demanding activities could improve treatment outcomes. Moreover, understanding how stress interacts with brain functions is crucial for advancing mental health interventions.

While the evidence confirms that acute stress can impair executive functions, further research is necessary to understand individual differences and optimize personalized treatments. This knowledge can contribute to more effective mental health care by recognizing when and how to intervene based on stress levels.

Overall, this study underscores the importance of considering stress management and cognitive support as integral parts of treating mental health conditions. Recognizing the effects of stress on emotional regulation can help clinicians design more resilient and adaptable therapy approaches.